Worker Safety and Health Affecting Insurance Premiums

Every contractor needs to be insured. In order to do this you must comply with U.S. Department of Labor regulations as well as follow legislation by the Division of Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Insurance carriers are firm believers in what the OSHA has to say about insurance because their regulations help prevent injuries and illness. These regulations are designed to keep the risk of liability lower and helps improve the bottom line. If your contracting business is found guilty of OSHA violations, insurance companies will view you as more of a risk. This increased risk is what causes insurance premiums to rise. In order to keep costs down for your insurance coverage be sure to avoid violating OSHA rules and regulations.

Every contractor is responsible to abide by the regulations set forth by the OSHA. Even if your company only has a few employees, it is not immune from the law. The most basic responsibilities as a Contractor are to inform workers of dangerous or harmful work environments and situations. It is your duty to help them recognize unsafe conditions and eliminate any exposure to hazards and illness. Simply put, the OSHA needs proof from you, showing that you have properly trained in informed your employees. Training is required on a yearly basis, so be sure to keep on top of it.

Lastly, the OSHA requires that one competent person be on every job site, meaning that someone who is capable of identifying issues in the surround work environment. They are required to point out things that are, “unsanitary, hazardous or dangerous to employees,” and just have the, “authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them.” Finally, it is up to the contractor to maintain a safety program which provides inspections and checks to the materials and equipment. This inspection is key to maintaining a good standing with OSHA. Make sure you always have worker safety in mind.